Share your memory
Maria touched so many lives. Share your memories and photos here.
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Janet Fletcher
Met through work at Matthews of Chester
I have known Maria for the past 25 years. We met when she interviewed me for a job at Matthews of Chester. We worked together for many years. I have lots of fond memories during that time but one in particular is when she went out of her way to secure working permits from the Council for my daughters when they were just 13. Those very first jobs stood them in good stead for their future careers and helped them navigate the grown up complexities of that next journey through life. When we both left Matthews we kept in touch, not often, but it was always lovely to catch up over a walk and a coffee. All through life we take turns down different roads and pathways but we are very fortunate if they lead us to meaningful connections and ultimate friendships. Thank you Maria. RIP my friend. Love Janet x
Sally Symes
Maria and Richard came to live next door
Lovely happy memories. Chatting over the front fence, but mostly getting together so share how we felt and sharing our lives, memories and family stories. I didn’t know her for long enough. Maria was an amazing, strong, lovely woman and I miss her so much
Richard Gillespie
Met her in a Latin American social in Leamington in Spa
Maria's tribute to the work of the NHS during Covid, now on display on Ward 51, Countess of Chester Hospital
Richard Gillespie
Her Husband
Maria Elena Faronda, former Prisoner of Conscience from Peru, came to Petersfield to thank the local Amnesty group for its work to secure her release. Over 60 people attended the meeting.
Beth Gibbons
City of Sanctuary Group
My favourite memory of Maria was the day she turned up unexpectedly my door holding a huge basket containing embroidery threads in every colour and shade as a gift of love for the Craft and Chat class I helped to run for refugee and asylum seeking women. The ladies were so excited and appreciative when they saw this generous gift. Creativity and conversations flowed , confidence increased, language skills improved , friendships have been forged and over several years those threads have been turned into 4 large embroidered wall hangings featuring Words of Welcome in many languages, Food and Drink from many countries , Festivals around the World and The City of Chester’s special features. The hangings are used every week in the English language classes. As we look at the hangings now we see Maria’s thoughtfulness, kindness and care for those seeking Sanctuary in every stitch as a most beautiful legacy .